I also prefer the real deal knives instead of knockoffs, but sometimes the knockoffs are pretty good!

I'm always real skeptical when getting a cheap knife.
The knife I find in my pocket most nowadays is my Kershaw Link.
It's small and light, speedsafe opener, made in USA, has a great fit in my hand, 420HC steel which ain't the best but my daily uses are unpacking boxes and cutting plastic straps for laundry since I work in an outpatient clinic. It's mostly a cutting tool for me, but can be used defensively if needed.
If I'm not at work I'll switch out to a Boker or CRKT blades
This last Eafengrow knife I got is very good for the money if someone wants a less expensive tool. Just nice to have options.